Fire Protection In Data Centers

If you are in the market for a managed dedicated server one thing to look for when you choose a host is the type fire suppressant system the data center has. The repercussions from a fire can be devastating but some fire suppressant systems may be as bad as the fire. It is it worth to see what kind of system the host you consider is protected by.

The traditional method for putting out fire in a building such as a data center where managed dedicated servers are kept has been water sprinklers or fire extinguishers. The challenge in a data center is that the equipment is so expensive and sensitive that the water or corrosive fire extinguishing material can cause as much damage as the fire. If you have had much experience around PCs or managed dedicated servers you already know what heat or water can do to a server. Not good! If your server is critical then outage by a fire could be very costly.

The thing to look at is if the data center has a “clean agent” in its suppression system. If it does, it will have the ability to put the fire out without smoke or water damage. It is a gaseous product that is safe for humans. Some claim to put out the fire faster than water. These advantages can be very important to a business which is very dependent on their managed dedicated server. It could mean the difference between being down a few hours or a few weeks.

These systems are very expensive to buy install and use. Some data centers won’t pay the price to have them. Many firms needing to rent a managed dedicated server aren’t aware of the impact this feature can have and often aren’t aware that they are being protected by less effective equipment.

You need your managed dedicated server operational or you wouldn’t be paying for one. Top of the line hosts will provide up to date fire protection. It is a good idea to have a clear understanding of this issue when you settle on a host for your managed dedicated server.